This week, Yelda has shared her favourite spots in San Sebastian. Ranging from where to eat and where to explore to help you plan your own itinerary.
Known as Donostia to the locals, San Sebastián is a coastal gem where the rugged Atlantic meets the refined elegance of the Belle Époque. Tucked away in the heart of Spain’s Basque Country, it is a city that orbits around two things: the crescent-shaped perfection of La Concha Bay and a world-leading culinary scene that boasts more Michelin stars per square meter than almost anywhere else on Earth.
Whether you are there to navigate the narrow, cider-soaked streets of the Parte Vieja (Old Town) or to soak in the golden Basque light, San Sebastián offers a rare blend of laid-back surf culture and sophisticated urban charm.
When to Go
San Sebastián is a city of seasons, and your timing depends on whether you're chasing the sun or the cider.
June to September: This is the peak. Expect glorious beach weather, vibrant festivals, and long, balmy evenings. It’s the best time for the sunset walks at Peine del Viento, though you’ll be sharing the promenade with many others.
May and October: The "sweet spot" months. The air is crisp, the crowds have thinned, and the city feels more intimate. Perfect for the Monte Urgull loop without the summer heat.
January to April: Cider House season (Txotx!). If you are visiting for the authentic rustic experience at spots like Egi Luze, this is when the new cider is tapped. It’s rainier and moodier, but arguably the most authentic time to eat like a local.
Let’s get into it.
What are your top restaurants?
Our top four experiences of the trip were at La Cuchara de San Telmo, based in the Old Town, it was a true highlight with their legendary hot pintxos including veal cheek and foie gras. A non-negotiable. Casa Urola was great for an elegant, unhurried lunch. The fish and dessert were standouts. The ground-floor pintxo bar (Scallop + Txakoli) is a ritual before sitting down.
We also loved Beti-Jai Berria, try the octopus. They make excellent pintxos, and they also serve proper full plates if you want something more substantial.
Beyond the Old Town, make sure to stop by Egi Luze Sagardotegia in Errenteria. It’s rustic, festive and deeply authentic. The bone-in ribeye with cider is the experience. ¡Txotx! ritual is a highlight.
And finally, Elkano, a Michelin Star restaurant in Getaria. The definitive charcoal-grilled fish experience. Whole turbot grilled on an open-air parrilla right outside the restaurant, served on the bone with just sea salt and olive oil. Book ahead - this is what Getaria is for.
Let’s talk drinks, where do you suggest going?
There’s so many places to choose from. Asador Etxebarri has one of the best dirty martinis I’ve tried. We’d definitely go back to Nobu Hotel San Sebastián, head up to the terrace for drinks, the view from the top is amazing.
I’d also suggest heading to Egi Luze, they pour apple cider straight from the barrels, a great experience. Whilst you’re in Old Town, make sure to try Pacharán at Plaza Berri, a traditional Spanish liquor, made with sloe berries and aniseed-flavoured spirit.
San Sebastián is famous for its traditional Basque pintxo bars. Can you give us a round up of your favourites?
Pinxto are a staple of Most of our favourite spots for pinxto are in Parte Vieja, the Old Town. The best way to enjoy this experience is doing a Sunday Pintxo Circuit. Sunday afternoon in the Old Town is magic. Drift between bars, no agenda - the city is at its most alive.
Txepetxa serves anchovies with everything - the bar is built around them. A must-stop.
Bar Martínez is famous for their stuffed red peppers (pimientos rellenos). Delicious and unlike most pintxo bars.
Bar Tamboril is the bar in the square to be at - a San Sebastian classic, especially for an afternoon round.
If you’re struggling to choose, then head to Bar Ganbara, one of the Old Town’s most celebrated pintxo bars. Known for their wild mushroom pintxos. Our other favourites include Casa Urola Bar, which closes at 3:15pm so arrive early and Anchuez Bar.
Let’s talk coffee and sweet treats, what are your top 2 recommendations?
East Crema is the go-to specialty coffee stop. A must for a proper morning coffee before hitting the Old Town.
You’ve definitely got to try the burnt Basque cheesecake from La Viña. Creamy, caramelised, unforgettable. Pre-order if you want one to take home because they sell out and close at 4 PM. Don’t forget they’re closed Monday mornings.
Where did you enjoy exploring on your trip and where are you dreaming of returning to?
The sunset golden hour walk from La Concha Promenade to Peine del Viento was one of the most beautiful moments of the trip. Walk west along the promenade as the sun drops, the light on the bay is extraordinary. Arrive at Peine del Viento by 8:15 PM to watch Chillida's iron sculptures meet the Atlantic at golden hour.
For a morning route, start at the aquarium for the Monte Urgull Loop. It’s a gentle hike with 360° views over La Concha and the old town. Best in the morning before the day heats up.
We also went to the Balenciaga Museum in Getaria. Superb for anyone who loves fashion or design history. The birthplace of the King of Fashion, beautifully curated. Worth the 30 minute drive from San Sebastián.
Another favourite was the Chillida-Leku Museum in Hernani. Monumental iron sculptures set in a wooded landscape. Peaceful and unlike anything else. Just make sure to book your tickets in advance.
Where would you recommend for getting some beauty sleep?
We stayed at Hotel Niza on La Concha Promenade. Owned by the Chillida family. Classic and well-positioned on the promenade. Great base, easy walk to everything.
When we return to San Sebastián Hotel Lasala Plaza is our must book for our next trip. Boutique, beautifully located in the heart of the Old Town, steps from everything.
On our trip we used Suital Transfer, a private transfer service that made the trip seamless. Essential for Getaria, cider house, and airport runs. Book them in advance.
If you had to choose, what were your favourite three spots?
It has to be, Casa Urola, La cuchara de San Telmo and the Balenciaga Museum.
Donostia, we'll be back.
